IUCN SSC Colombia Species Specialist Group

Dr. Jose F. González-Maya is a biologist and leading conservation scientist specializing in biodiversity management across Latin America. He holds an MSc in Tropical Forest and Biodiversity Management from CATIE and a PhD in Sciences from UNAM, Mexico. Currently, he serves as Professor and Head of the Conservation Biology Area at Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana (UAM) - Unidad Lerma. His leadership extends to his roles as President of ProCAT Colombia and ProCAT Costa Rica, as well as Co-chair for both the IUCN/SSC Small Carnivore Specialist Group and the Colombia Species Specialist Group. A prolific researcher, Jose has authored over 150 scientific publications and 15 books on biodiversity and conservation. He is also the founder of the Latin American Journal of Conservation and Mammalogy Notes. His work focuses on integrating sound ecological research with strategic conservation planning to protect ecosystems throughout the region.